Trolling Motor Size?

[thistles9]

Hi, I have a 16.5ft Alumnacraft Lunker boat with a 50Hp motor on the back. I am looking to purchase a trolling motor for this boat and I am wondering what size or trolling motor I would need for this boat?, and would a trolling motor be rated by the Thrust. Thanks for all the help.
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[tomc]

Electric trolling motors deal with "pounds of thrust" when describing their power ratings. When choosing what pound thrust is needed to move your boat, a number of criteria must first be considered. How heavy are the boat, gear and people? Do you fish in adverse conditions, such as high winds and rough water? And lastly, what is the length of the boat? The following chart will show the appropriate size motor needed in comparison to your boat's length:

Boat Length in Feet/Pounds of Thrust Required
12-foot boat, 30 pounds of thrust is required

13-foot boat, 30 pounds of thrust is required

14-foot boat, 32 pounds of thrust is required

15-foot boat, 36 pounds of thrust is required

16-foot boat, 40 pounds of thrust is required

17-foot boat, 50 pounds of thrust is required

18-foot boat, 55 pounds of thrust is required

19-foot boat, 65 pounds of thrust is required

20-foot boat, 74 pounds of thrust is required

21-foot boat, 74 pounds of thrust is required

22-foot boat, 101 pounds of thrust is required

This chart is meant to convey "normal fishing conditions." If you fish in rough water or current areas, moving up to the next thrust level would be advantageous. Also, if you store a lot of heavy gear, or have more than one fishing partner usually in the boat, moving to the next level is also advised. Whatever you do, don't scrimp on choosing your motor. Many professionals believe that the best rule of thumb is to buy the biggest motor you can afford, all within reason of course. Running a motor that is underrated for your boat will only lead to headaches, and sub-par days of struggling to get around while out on the water.
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[bigpikeguy]

I have a 16.5" G3 Eagle 165 that came with a 40lb thrust motor that i wish was a 50 or 55lb. That should help make your choice easier lol.
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[perchinski]

I have a 16' Crestliner FishHawk tiller, with a 40hp Honda. My 101 Pro Maxxum is more than enough, even with 3 aboard, coolers, livewell full, etc. Too much better than not enough, but 80lbs of thrust will do you just fine, plus one less 40lb battery.
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